Inbox

Working for a Bright Future

Though we are facing the gloomiest economic situation in decades, it is refreshing to see TIME put a positive spin on the future of work [May 25]. Yes, diminishing pensions and record layoffs are grim realities, but we must also recognize that it is possible that some good may come of this. Whether it is finding valuable space in the workplace for boomers and Gen Xers or countering the reduction of work hours with an increase in the amount of time we will be able to dedicate to our families, there is always a silver lining. Thank you for helping readers better understand that. Ben Mackenzie, PORTLAND, ORE.

Murphy Misses the Mark

It is downright laughable for GOP strategist Mike Murphy to admonish the four-month-old Obama Administration for its alleged unwillingness to tackle tough policy issues [May 25]. Lest we forget, the current situation is due in large part to the laissez-faire attitude of years of Republican rule. Aside from military personnel and their families, the level of sacrifice expected of individuals and, more important, corporate America was precisely zero. How short must our memories be to grant the GOP any credibility or moral authority on such matters? Scott Finchum, SHARONVILLE, OHIO

Shedding Light on Adult Autism

Karl Taro Greenfeld expresses many of the emotions felt by parents and siblings of adults with autism [May 25]. The medical community’s response has long been geared toward children. The attitude toward adults with autism has been one of intolerance, which leads to medicating with drugs that are inappropriate for the disorder. Patricia Morin, FAIRFAX, VA.

Eat, Drink and Be Married?

Thank you for your coverage of couples who are committed but unmarried [May 25]. My long-term boyfriend and I are abstaining from marriage in solidarity with gay people. Even though it can be tricky at times, we are living in domestic-partnership bliss, and I hope in our lifetimes we and our gay friends will be able to check the Married box on census forms. Randi Fair, PHILADELPHIA

The unmarried couples featured in this article do not understand the negative effect they might have on young people. The breakdown of traditional family values is this country’s biggest disaster. John and Yvonne McMillan COARSEGOLD, CALIF.

Let Joel Write!

I vote in favor of more hockey writing from Joel Stein [May 25]. While the hockey subculture may be largely irrelevant, fans like me appreciate journalism that recognizes the passion this sport arouses. David F. Spang, CHAMBERSBURG, PA.

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